Supervised Family Visits: Information for Foster Carers

Supervised Contact with the foster child’s family

In most cases, children will want to maintain contact with their families during the time they are in foster care.

The single factor most connected with positive outcomes for children is meaningful, lifelong connections with family and kin. A meaningful connection to family and kin helps a child or young person develop a sense of belonging and hope.

We understand that family time visits may be a confusing and nerve-wracking time for both children and their carers. Our supervisors are there to provide guidance and reassurance when appropriate.

How can I support children to have positive family time?

Family time can be complex for a child, as it involves transitioning between two important parts of their world—the family they have come from and the family they currently live with.

It’s normal for children to experience a range of emotions before and after family time. Carers are encouraged to respond to these emotions with empathy, compassion, and reassurance. Acknowledging how they feel and focusing on the positives of family time can help children feel more secure and supported.

If a child appears particularly anxious on the day of a visit, please inform the supervisor at pick-up so they can provide additional reassurance and support during the session.

Your caseworker or carer support network can also offer additional, personalised guidance if needed.

Mother and child spending time together with supervisor

What if they don’t want to go?

It’s common for children to feel anxious about family time. Our supervisors are trained to provide reassurance and emotional support, and will remind children that family time is intended to be a safe and positive experience. They’ll also let children know that they can leave at any point if they feel uncomfortable.

Supervisors often talk through what the visit will involve on the way there, as we’ve found that knowing what to expect can help ease nerves.

If a child does not want to attend a visit, we will never force them to go. Their feelings are always respected.

family contact supervisor with clipboard

What is the role of the supervisor?

The supervisor is a neutral third party whose main focus is the safety and emotional well-being of the child. They are responsible for the child from the moment they are picked up until they are safely returned home.
The supervisor’s role is to provide a judgment-free, safe space where children can have positive interactions with their families.

Can the supervisors tell me what happened during the visit?

After a visit, our supervisors will not share specific details unless requested to do so by your caseworker. However, they may provide general information relevant to the child’s well-being—for example, what the child ate, any gifts received, or if there were incidents that may have caused distress.
Any questions about specific aspects of the visit should be directed to the caseworker. Please note that supervisors will not engage in negative discussions about the family, as it’s important for children to see supervisors remain neutral, supportive, and judgment-free.